Remembering its humble beginnings is crucial when considering the Al Bateen Airport. This wasn’t always the exclusive executive airport it is today. Al Bateen Airport started its journey in 1970 as Abu Dhabi International Airport. It replaced the city’s previous, smaller airport.
The airport’s story is one of transformation. In 1982 a new Abu Dhabi International Airport opened. This later became Zayed International Airport. Al Bateen then transitioned into a military airbase in 1983. It was known as Bateen Air Base.
During the Gulf War, Al Bateen played a crucial role. Starting in August 1990, the United States Air Force deployed units here. The 50th Tactical Airlift Squadron arrived first. They brought sixteen Lockheed C-130E Hercules transport aircraft. Later, the 41st Electronic Combat Squadron joined. They arrived with Lockheed EC-130H Compass Call aircraft.
Al Bateen remained a military airbase until 2008. Then it transformed again. It became a civilian airport. It began focusing on executive jets. It was then that it adopted the name Al Bateen Executive Airport.
Al Bateen Executive Airport is located a short distance from Abu Dhabi city center. It’s only about 6.5 nautical miles southeast. The airport sits on Abu Dhabi Island. It has a stand capacity for up to 50 private jets. Al Bateen ensures quick turnarounds.
Did you know Al Bateen Executive Airport is the Middle East region’s only airport dedicated to business aviation? It is the first dedicated private jet airport in the MENA region.
In December 2022 Al Bateen Airport played a part in a significant event. It was the site of the Viktor Bout-Brittney Griner prisoner exchange.
In 2015, Solar Impulse 2 used Al Bateen as its starting point. This Swiss solar-powered aircraft attempted to circumnavigate the world. It also landed here in 2016.
Al Bateen Executive Airport continues to evolve. Jetex, a Dubai-based aviation company, opened a private terminal here in April 2023. Al Bateen delivers exceptional customer service. It uses the existing executive terminal. A state-of-the-art crew and flight operations center offers amenities. These include relaxation lounges, sleep rooms, and flight planning facilities. Al Bateen Airport delivers warm Arabian hospitality.